Waki Temaki - Upscale Sushi Food Truck

Summer is one of my favourite times of the year. With the white snow behind us and the promise of heat and sun going forward, summer is often the time when I am often the most adventurous and willing to try new things. Capitalizing on the summer air are a litany of Food Trucks who have started to adorn the streets and alleyways of Winnipeg's busiest areas selling trinkets of delicious food for would-be adventurers. One of the newer trucks this year is the Waki Temaki Sushi Truck.

The whole premise of a food truck is that it is mobile and able to set up at any number of locations throughout the city. I caught up to these guys outside the Legislature on Broadway on this specific day. The brightly lit truck and whimsical signage are all key aspects to attracting diners and customers. Appealing and attractive it was no surprise to find a healthy line of diners when I arrived shortly after noon.

Waki Temaki is owned by the family behind one of my favourite restaurants in Winnipeg, Yujiro (Edward Lam). Using their home menu as a base and the concept of handrolls, Mr. Lam has crafted a menu combining popular ingredients to create unique handrolls. Shrimp Tempura, California, Spicy Salmon all adorn those wanting the usual, while a Tuna & Green Onion or Spicy Breaded Shrimp roll await those more adventurous. On the other hand the chefs also offer small appetizers like Yakitori or Tako Yoki, an octopus donus ball. And finally for those wanting a larger meal, one can always go with a rice box featuring a small handful of protein options. Definitely enough to keep anyone happy, indeed.

The delicious Yakitori features two marinated chicken skewers fried in Teriyaki Sauce and finished with sesame. The subtlety of flavours here show the true ability of the chefs with the tender chicken holding its own against the slight saltiness and sweetness of the teriyaki and contrasted well with the crunch of the sesame seeds; all working together to form a nuanced umami taste.

Wanting something more substantial I went with the Beef Rice Box. While initial impressions might resemble that of a fastfood takeout rice bowl, the contrast of the flavours here cries against it. In actuality, the exquisitely tender beef has just a mild hint of salt and sugar which works extremely well with the bed of perfectly cooked morsels of Japanese sushi rice. Colour and textural contrasts are found in the smattering of green onions on top. Delicious.

Waki Temaki Food Truck showcases excellent Japanese cuisine that rivals most established restaurants. That it is able to perform such feats in the confines of a food truck is dazzling and incredible. While not cheap, the quality is there making Waki Temaki an absolute recommendation for anyone who sees its colourful truck parked on a streetcorner.